Dublin full-back Rory O'Carroll dropped a bombshell on Dublin when it was announced he had asked not to be considered for Jim Gavin's panel for the upcoming season.
The Kilmacud Crokes full-back has decided to spend the year in New Zealand, and his absence is considered to be a major blow to Dublin's hopes of trying to reclaim their All-Ireland crown.
O'Carroll has been one of the best full-backs in the country since cementing himself in the Dublin line-up - fixing what was a problem position for the capital county. It was assumed that the 26-year-old would seamlessly return to the Dublin panel in 2017, but O'Carroll himself admits that he's unsure when or if he returns at all, admitting the break could be six months or it could be six years:
What I have said to Jim is that I asked him not consider me for selection for the 2016 season. That could last forever and I might never play for Dublin again but I don’t like to put any limits or titles on things. I’m open to the idea I could play again and I’m open to the idea I may never play again. I’ll see how it goes. I’m not too worried about what is down the line.
O'Carroll has taken breaks from the game before, choosing to travel in 2009, and study abroad in 2011 - but both times transitioned back into the Dublin panel with ease.
His latest comments will be a further blow to Dublin's ambitions beyond this season.
[Irish Examiner]
